Some believe that love is at the heart of leadership. Consider these perspectives:
Thane Bellomo suggests that leadership requires love. The success of a business and the success of its people are inextricably linked. One cannot succeed without the other. “If a leader loves their people, that leader will do everything in their power to help them be more than they ever thought they could be. That is the proper role of the leader.”
Brandon Smith argues that great leaders:
- Love the mission and purpose of the organization. They feel an emotional connection to the “why” of the organization and are comfortable sharing that passion with others.
- Love the customers they serve. They care about their customers enough to be curious about their customers’ needs and how the organization might be able to make their lives better.
- Love their employees. They feel a deep commitment and care for the people they lead.
- Love their jobs. They consider themselves blessed to have the privilege to touch so many lives and lead others to something better. Their role brings them joy and a personal sense of purpose.
Tamiko Cuellar offers 8 ways to show love to your staff:
- Show appreciation.
- Offer encouragement.
- Be understanding and flexible when possible, but have firm boundaries.
- Have a listening ear.
- Keep the lines of communication open.
- Train rather than criticize.
- Offer support in times of overwhelm.
- Ask how they are doing, and really mean it.
Do you agree? How do you show love to those you lead? Or how would you like to be shown love by leaders in your organization?
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David Skorton
President/CEO
Association of American Medical Colleges
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